WEALTH September 20, 2025 1 Comments

How Katie Allen Bootstrapped AGENCY FOURTEEN From Zero to Industry Powerhouse — And Why Investors Are Starting to Take Notice

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a family dinner chat into the launchpad for a thriving PR empire? Meet Katie Allen, the gutsy founder of AGENCY FOURTEEN, an Irish powerhouse that’s been shaking up beauty, lifestyle, motoring, and hospitality sectors with a savvy, results-driven flair. From dreaming about horses and mounted gardaí as a kid to juggling motherhood with exam cramming, Katie’s journey is anything but ordinary. She learned early on that “no risk, no reward” isn’t just a motto, it’s a way of life — and her knack for throwing solutions into the ring before problems even surface has defined her career. Whether it’s her favorite gold Chupi necklace or cruising in her beloved BMW X2, Katie blends style with substance, proving that success is built on grit, kindness, and relentless focus. Curious to see how she’s making meaningful media impact, one client at a time? LEARN MORE

Katie Allen is the founder of AGENCY FOURTEEN, an Irish PR firm. With a creative, results-driven approach, it helps Irish and international clients across the beauty, lifestyle, motoring and hospitality industries make meaningful media impact. www.agencyfourteen.ie

Where did it all begin?

I’d always had a passion for music and festivals, which led me to study for a BA in Marketing and Event Management in DBS.

But one Easter, over a family dinner, my cousin Gemma told me about her job in PR, and it sounded like the most exciting career.

Inspired, I went on to do the masters in Public Relations in DIT, which led to landing my first job in the press office at Aurora Fashions, working with major high-street fashion brands at the time — Oasis, Coast, Warehouse and Karen Millen.

What was your earliest ambition?

If you were to ask me as a child, I would have said I wanted to work with horses.

I was obsessed. At one stage, I wanted to be in the mounted gardaí.

Were you a good student?

I really enjoyed school and was definitely someone who tried to impress the teachers. The arrival of my son, Jamie, before the Leaving Cert certainly brought a whole new layer and level of responsibility.

But I stayed as focused as I could and gave my all to every exam and project, with the generous help of my parents, who pushed me forward no end.

What’s your motto for life?

No risk, no reward. And always try to be kind. You catch more flies with honey.

What was the best piece of business advice you ever received?

Never wait to give a client news, whether it’s good or bad. And if it’s bad, always come with a solution in hand.

Which business people have inspired you?

My dad. His work ethic is unmatched, and the business he built really set the standard for me. I find myself constantly turning to him for advice.

He built it with my mam by his side. She’s the definition of grace and grit, equally as hard-working and inspiring.

What is your favourite piece of clothing?

My gold Chupi necklace, which I haven’t taken off in years.

Which five famous guests would you love to have at your dinner party?

Graham Norton, David Attenborough, Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio and Hozier.

I’d have to bring my mam in to host, as she’s the queen of dinner parties.

What are your best and worst business habits?

I try and keep myself organised, which helps me juggle multiple projects and switch between client conversations efficiently without dropping the ball.

I’m also good at building and maintaining relationships.

What’s your favourite show on television?

I’ve recently finished rewatching 1883 and 1923 before I watched 1923 season two.

Outstanding TV.

What car do you drive?

A BMW X2 with the M-Sport package. I adore it.

It strikes the perfect balance between style and performance.

What Irish business do you wish you had invested in ten years ago?

Stripe.